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School Board Candidate FAQs!

Learn more here: FAQ

4 days ago, PI Panthers
School board faq
Attention Pine Island Parents. Pine Island Schools (along with over 300 Minnesota schools) has transitioned to Bound for Activities. This was due to the forced change to Arbiter in 2025 and not being happy with it's services.
Please take a look at this link which provides you all of the information you will need as you register your child for sports and activities, purchase tickets, look for schedules, and much more.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gBO2UVC5I9c6AB6d7KcsL-5t9DZGndcQ/view?fbclid=IwY2xjawS6CKpleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeaEyRyvl10w0UKfKVaFx5Wb42d0YGP-uyVyYiXVLi5FHWNN_ESkg7R5hdNtw_aem_P_s229pxKDTUu31R_AGiFQ
5 days ago, Brian Menk
Attention Pine Island Parents. Pine Island Schools (along with over 300 Minnesota schools) has transitioned to Bound for Activities. This was due to the forced change to Arbiter in 2025 and not being happy with it's services.  Please take a look at this link which provides you all of the information you will need as you register your child for sports and activities, purchase tickets, look for schedules, and much more.

Who can run for the School Board?
Learn more here: School Board

6 days ago, PI Panthers
School Board
We're Hiring!

Pine Island Childcare High School Assistant

Position Type: High School Assistant
Date Posted: July 1, 2026
Location: Pine Island Elementary School or Early Learning Center
Work day/Year: Part-time year around
Closing Date For Applications: Open Until Filled

Job Summary: Independent School District #255 Pine Island is seeking a part time high school assistant for our childcare program. Our childcare program provides care for children 33 months- 6th grade. This position would work closely with our childcare leads and adult teachers. This job will include a wide variety of jobs from interacting with students, cleaning, and assisting leaders with other duties.
Candidates preferred qualifications: Must be at least 15 years of age
Experience working with children but not required.

Pay and Compensation: The starting wage for high school assistant is $13.55

Please fill out the application online at www.pineisland.k12.mn.us.
11 days ago, PI Panthers
We're Hiring Sign
We're Hiring!

JV Softball Coach
Position Type: Coach
Date Posted: June 29, 2026
Location: Pine Island High School
Work day/Year: Spring season (March-May)
Closing Date For Applications: Until Filled

Compensation:
Salary per 2025-2027 Master Agreement (Page 34)

Job Summary: Independent School District #255 Pine Island is seeking a coach in our softball program. Pine Island Schools is a growing district with over 1,500 students, and is located ten minutes north of Rochester. An online application is required.

Qualifications:
Current Minnesota teaching license is preferred but not required. Coaching experience is preferred but not required.

Apply online at www.pineisland.k12.mn.us
13 days ago, PI Panthers
We're Hiring Sign
We're Hiring!

B (9th grade) Boys Soccer Coach
Position Type: Coach
Date Posted: June 29, 2026
Location: Pine Island High School
Work day/Year: Fall season (August-October)
Closing Date For Applications: Until Filled

Compensation:
Salary per 2025-2027 Master Agreement (Page 34)

Job Summary: Independent School District #255 Pine Island is seeking a coach in our boys soccer program. Pine Island Schools is a growing district with over 1,500 students, and is located ten minutes north of Rochester. An online application is required.

Qualifications:
Current Minnesota teaching license is preferred but not required. Coaching experience is preferred but not required.

Apply online at www.pineisland.k12.mn.us
13 days ago, PI Panthers
We're Hiring Sign
We're Hiring!

Position Type: Fifth Grade Long Term Sub
Date Posted: June 29, 2026
Location: Pine Island School District
Work day/Year: September 14, 2026- October 14, 2026
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled

Job Summary: Independent School District #255, Pine Island is seeking a fifth grade long term substitute teacher starting September 14 and ending on October 14, 2026. A majority of the content covered by this teacher would be the 5th Grade Minnesota Social Studies Standards. The Pine Island School District is looking for a candidate who enjoys delivering engaging curriculum and collaborating with others. All students are one-to-one with Chromebooks. Pine Island is proud to offer ample support in the areas of technology, curriculum, and professional development to long term subs and staff members. The Pine Island School District has seen consistent growth for many years and offers many wonderful opportunities for both students and staff.

Qualification Required: Licensed by the state of Minnesota to teach fifth grade
Application Procedure: Applications are available through Applitrack at www.pineisland.k12.mn.us
13 days ago, PI Panthers
We're Hiring Sign
NOTICE OF FILING DATES FOR ELECTION TO THE SCHOOL BOARD

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 0255
PINE ISLAND PUBLIC SCHOOLS
STATE OF MINNESOTA

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the period for filing affidavits of candidacy for the office of school board member of Independent School District No. 0255 shall begin on July 14, 2026, and shall close at 5:00 p.m. on July 28, 2026.

The general election shall be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. At that election, four (4) members will be elected to the School Board for terms of four (4) years each.

Affidavits of Candidacy are available from the school district clerk, 223 1st Ave SE, Pine Island, MN. The District Office hours for filing are Tuesday July 14, 2026 through Thursday July 16, 2026 7:30am – 3pm, Monday July 20, 2026 through Thursday July 23, 2026 7:30am-3pm, Monday July 27, 2026 7:30am-3pm and Tuesday July 28, 2026 7:30am – 5pm. Please note, the district office is not open Friday, July 17 and Friday, July 24. The filing fee for this office is $2.00.

A candidate for this office must be an eligible voter, must be 21 years of age or more on assuming office, must have been a resident of the school district from which the candidate seeks election for thirty (30) days before the general election, and must have no other affidavit on file for any other office at the same primary or next ensuing general election.

The affidavits of candidacy must be filed in the office of the school district clerk and the filing fee paid prior to 5:00 p.m. on July 28, 2026.

Dated: June 8, 2026
BY ORDER OF THE SCHOOL BOARD
/s/Kristi Harney /School District Clerk
19 days ago, PI Panthers
Running for School Board
We're Hiring!

Job Posting: Special Education Paraprofessional/School Readiness Paraprofessional
Location: Pine Island Early Learning Center
Job Type: Full-time (1.0 FTE)
Position Title: Special Education Paraprofessional/School Readiness Paraprofessional
Start Date: Aug 18, 2026.
Application Deadline: Open Until (2.5 FTE positions are filled)

Pine Island School District is seeking dedicated and compassionate General Education and Special Education Paraprofessionals to join our Early Learning Center. In these roles, you will support young learners within both general education and special education preschool settings. These positions are ideal for professionals who excel in student care, value collaboration with educators and support staff, and are committed to fostering student safety, independence, and overall well-being during their foundational early years.

Qualifications:
Required:
Current PCA certification (or ability to obtain certification upon hire)

High school diploma, Associates degree or higher (preferred)

Previous school experience (preferred)

Compensation & Benefits:
Competitive Salary & Benefits: Salary range: $18.59/hour - $28.09/hour, with salary, district health and dental plans per the ESP contract.

Equity Statement: Pine Island School District is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment for all students, staff, and families. We value collaboration, respect, and high expectations and encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.

Questions?
For inquiries about this position, please contact:
Katie Hayden; Administrative Assistant

kathryn.hayden@pineisland.k12.mn.us

We invite you to apply and make a difference in the lives of our youngest learners! Apply online at www.pineisland.k12.mn.us
20 days ago, PI Panthers
We're Hiring Sign

We're Hiring!

C (junior high) Girls Soccer Coach
Position Type: Coach
Date Posted: June 17, 2026
Location: Pine Island High School
Work day/Year: Fall season (August-October)
Closing Date For Applications: Until Filled

Compensation:
Salary per 2025-2027 Master Agreement (Page 34)

Job Summary: Independent School District #255 Pine Island is seeking a coach in our girls soccer program. Pine Island Schools is a growing district with over 1,500 students, and is located ten minutes north of Rochester. An online application is required.

Qualifications:
Current Minnesota teaching license is preferred but not required. Coaching experience is preferred but not required.

Apply online at www.pineisland.k12.mn.us

25 days ago, PI Panthers
We're Hiring Sign

Are you in need of service hours? We have several opportunities over the summer! Availability as soon as next week! You can scan the QR code or click this link for more details: Service Hours Opportunities

26 days ago, PI Panthers
summer camp code
Calling All Middle School Students! Join the Conservation Crew This Summer!

Looking for a fun way to spend part of your summer while making a real difference? Join Conservation Crew — a summer opportunity for middle school students who want to explore nature, give back to their community, and be part of meaningful projects!

📅 Meetings and activities will take place throughout July and August

Students will have opportunities to:
🌱 Learn more about nature and local ecosystems
♻️ Explore sustainability and environmental stewardship
🦋 Participate in community projects that make a positive difference for people, animals, and the environment
🤝 Connect with other students who care about creating positive change
🌎 Spend time outdoors while building leadership and teamwork skills

Whether you already love being outside or are just curious to learn something new, Conservation Crew is a great place to get involved, make friends, and leave a positive impact in our community.

Please complete this interest survey so we can best plan our meeting days and times! (Full link to survey: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScf2_jeyoq_9i64U5OCLu6Kt43qhTqcs3GzsOpMmCjZEFn8FQ/viewform?usp=header )

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Mrs. Schimek by email at meschimek@pineisland.k12.mn.us

Megan Barnett Schimek

Pine Island High School

Biology Instructor

(507) 356-8326 ext. 3354

meschimek@pineisland.k12.mn.us
about 1 month ago, PI Panthers
We're Hiring!

JOB TITLE: Food Service Worker
DEPARTMENT: Pine Island School Food Service
SUPERVISOR: Food Service Director
Start Date: 2026-27 School Year
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled

JOB SUMMARY:
The Food Service Worker is responsible for dishwashing and assisting in the preparation and serving of all menu items. Additional responsibilities include, cleaning, ensuring safe food handling procedures and ensuring foods are stored, labeled, and rotated properly in accordance with state/federal food code. All staff are expected to perform related work as assigned by their supervisor.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Program Accountability
- Monitors all food served meet current nutritional standards and meal
pattern requirements, including children with special diets.
-Aids and recommends menus that encourage customer consumption and
satisfaction.
- Establishes a leadership role in providing training in, cooking principles and
excellent customer service.
Sanitation Safety and Security
- Assists the kitchen(s) to protect the health and well-being of the school's
children, staff, and community through high levels of sanitation standards.
- Responds to a food hold and recall in an expedient, effective, and efficient
manner.
-Takes an active role in food safety, including proper receiving, handling,
storing and preparation of all food coming into the kitchen.
Food Production
- Applies management principles to establishing and maintaining high
standards of control for quality food production and distribution.
-May at times assist in providing training to all staff to ensure quality food
production.
- Ensures credibility through daily monitoring of food production procedures.
Service
- Provides and maintains excellent quality in the presentation and service of
food.
-Ensures all program services and meals will be served in pleasant facilities
and by courteous staff.
Other
-Performs and manages job-related proficiency with the highest ethical
Integrity.
-Performs and manages with a commitment to promote a quality SNP that
meets the nutritional needs of the customers served.
- Performs overall nature that is committed to the goals and visions of the
school district.
- Performs appropriate communication skills with all customers served.
-Provides support to all food and nutrition staff, to ensure all customers are
served.
-Other duties as assigned.
The tasks listed in this job description are for the purpose of identifying the appropriate State Job Match for this job class and are not intended to be a comprehensive list of all responsibilities and tasks which may be assigned to this position.

COMPENSATION: Hourly rate range is $15.22-$18.22 depending on experience. District contribution to medical, PTO, life insurance, and state retirement. Voluntary: vision, dental, 403b

Apply online at www.pineisland.k12.mn.us
about 1 month ago, PI Panthers
We're Hiring Sign
We're Hiring!

Job Posting: Payroll/HR Specialist & Special Education Administrative Assistant
Location: Pine Island School District – District Office
Job Type: Full-Time, 12-month contract
Start Date: Open Immediately
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled

Position Overview
Pine Island School District is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Payroll/HR Specialist who will also serve as the Administrative Assistant to the Special Education Director. This dual-role position places primary emphasis on payroll and human resources functions for the district, with secondary responsibilities providing clerical and organizational support to special education leadership. The ideal candidate will have strong technical skills, the ability to manage sensitive information with discretion, and a proven record of accuracy and efficiency in a fast-paced environment.

Primary Responsibilities – Payroll/HR Specialist
Prepare, process, and reconcile payroll for all district employees, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and district requirements.
Maintain and update employee records, contracts, and personnel files in a secure and organized manner.
Administer employee benefits, including enrollment, changes, and terminations, and coordinate with benefit providers.
Manage new hire onboarding, including required forms, background checks, and orientation.
Provide staff support regarding payroll, benefits, leave, and HR policies.
Post job vacancies, track applicants, and assist in interview coordination.
Ensure compliance with employment laws, contracts, and district policies.
Collaborate with the Business Office on payroll, benefits, and HR reporting needs.
Other duties as assigned.

Secondary Responsibilities – Special Education Administrative Assistant
Provide clerical and organizational support to the Director of Special Education and special education staff.
Maintain accurate student records in compliance with state and federal retention/destruction guidelines.
Assist with special education transportation coordination, including provider communication and invoice reconciliation.
Manage student record transfers, tuition agreements, and coding for open-enrolled, non-resident, and non-public special education students.
Track and organize compliance-related documentation for audits.
Assist staff with organizing and submitting Personnel Activity Reports (PARs) and Certification Reports.

Other duties as assigned.
Collaboration & General Office Support
Partner with District Office staff and administrators to ensure accurate data management and timely reporting.
Attend relevant training sessions and implement procedural updates as required.
Support other District Office functions and projects as assigned.

Qualifications
Required:
Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail.
Ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities and meet critical deadlines.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Google Suite, and data management systems.
Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.

Preferred:
Experience in payroll processing, HR operations, or public school business office functions.
Experience with special education clerical work.
Familiarity with Skyward, SpEd Forms, or similar student/staff data systems.
Strong communication and problem-solving skills.

Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $50,000-60,000.
Benefits: Medical and dental insurance; paid time off; employer-provided life insurance; retirement; and paid holidays.

Equity Statement
Pine Island School District is committed to creating an equitable, inclusive, and respectful environment for every student, staff member, and family. The district values diversity and encourages individuals from all backgrounds to apply.

Questions:
For inquiries about this posting, please contact:
Luke May, HR Specialist Email: luke.may@pineisland.k12.mn.us
Apply online at www.pineisland.k12.mn.us

about 1 month ago, PI Panthers
We're Hiring Sign
Pine Island Schools kindly asks community members to please stay off athletic fields when they have been groomed and prepared for games or events.

Our grounds crew works hard to provide safe, high-quality playing surfaces for our student-athletes. Foot traffic, pets, bikes, and recreational use can quickly damage freshly prepared fields.

Thank you for helping us keep our facilities game-ready and supporting Pine Island students and activities.
about 1 month ago, PI Panthers
friendly reminder
Today, we had the privilege of celebrating and recognizing the incredible staff members, community partners, and retirees who have made a lasting impact on Pine Island Public Schools. Their dedication, service, and commitment to our students and school community are truly appreciated.
Thank you to all of our honorees for the countless ways you have enriched our schools and community. Your contributions have helped shape the success of Pine Island Public Schools, and we are grateful for all you have done.
Congratulations to each of our recipients!

⭐ Years of Service Honorees

10 Years of Service
Mitch Schiltz – HS Principal
Shannon Kelley – Elementary Teacher
Megan Pearson – Paraprofessional
Jim Marx – Custodian
Michelle Nord – Transportation
Roger Ronningen – Transportation
Doug Strandell – Transportation

20 Years of Service
Jen Slowinski – Elementary Teacher
Mark Passow – Middle School Teacher

30 Years of Service
Traci Bauer – Elementary Teacher
Barb Hoppe – MS/HS Band Teacher

40 Years of Service
Joe Mish – MS/HS Orchestra Teacher

🎉 Retirees
Becky Collins – Elementary Teacher (36 years)
Shawn Hunskor – HS Math Teacher (31 years)
Dawn Lenz – HS Special Education Teacher (12 years in Pine Island)
Darla Burdick – Early Childhood Paraprofessional (21 years)

❤️ Friends in Education Award Recipients
Elizabeth Howard – Pine Island City Administrator
Audrey Jacobson – Elementary Volunteer
The Friend of Education Award honors community members and staff who go above and beyond to invest in our students, our staff, and our schools. Thank you for believing in Pine Island and for the countless ways you help make our schools and community stronger.
about 1 month ago, PI Panthers
End of Year Recognition
Today we celebrate and honor our retiring staff members for their years of dedication, service, and commitment to our students, schools, and community.

Throughout their careers, they have made a lasting impact through their leadership, compassion, hard work, and countless contributions both inside and outside the classroom. The relationships they built and the lives they touched will continue to be felt for years to come.

While they will be greatly missed, we are excited for them as they begin this next chapter filled with new adventures and well-deserved time with family and friends.

Congratulations on your retirement, and best wishes in the years ahead!
about 1 month ago, PI Panthers
Happy Retirement
Graduation Ceremony tonight at 7:00 pm!
about 1 month ago, PI Panthers
Grad Ceremony  Details
Dear Pine Island Parents and Families,

As we wrap up another school year, I wanted to take a moment to send a sincere thank you to all of you. Thank you for your continued support, for trusting us with your children every day, and for actively partnering with us to make this year a success.

A major focus for us this past year was developing our new Strategic Roadmap. While this is something required by the state, that isn't the reason we did it. We poured our time into this because it gives our district clear direction. It defines our core values and what we truly believe in. Most importantly, it creates alignment across our schools so that we are all moving in the same direction, working together to support every single child academically, behaviorally, and in their mental health.

Thank you to everyone who took the time to provide feedback and share your thoughts during this process. Your input was vital. At Pine Island, our mission remains steady: we want to continue to inspire, empower, and achieve excellence. We know we can't do that in isolation, and we want to keep building strong partnerships with you and our broader community to enhance everything we do here.

I also want to make you aware of an important transition happening this summer. We are changing our student information system over to Infinite Campus. The official switch over will happen in July, so please be on the lookout for more details regarding this update as we get closer to that time.

Aside from that system update, our work on our facilities doesn't stop during the summer months. We will be focusing on a few small facility improvements across the district to ensure our environment is ready to welcome everyone back in the fall.

Thank you again for an incredible year and for being such an important part of the Panther family. I hope you and your children have a wonderful, safe, and relaxing summer break.

In Kind Regards,
Barry Schmidt
Superintendent
Pine Island Public Schools
about 1 month ago, PI Panthers
Thank you!
In addition to receiving World Language Proficiency Certificates and the Gold Bilingual Seal from the Minnesota Department of Education, three students (Kaden Chim, Sarah Olson, and Tahnee Tellaeche Ramirez) also received the Global Seal of Biliteracy.

The award states "This international recognition is earned through your exceptional display of language proficiency, underscores your dedication to fostering global understanding and communication. Your attainment of this honor stands as a testament to your unwavering commitment and perseverance, marking you as a distinguished member of a global community. Your certificate will be forever securely stored in our digital vault, symbolizing not only your achievement but also the promising doors of opportunity it will undoubtedly open for your future endeavors... affirming your status as a distinguished member of the global language community."
about 2 months ago, PI Panthers
Global Seal of Biliteracy